The Northwoods are all ablaze week, glowing scarlet and pumpkin everywhere we look. We want to run outside and take in this ephemeral sight while it lasts! But we are also contending with another fall phenomenon this week—a chilly rain—that keeps us indoors more than we like.

Overflowing with the inspiring beauty that this region provides, while seeking warmth and comfort indoors, this is the perfect time to turn inward and explore your creative side. No matter your preferred medium, you’ll find abundant artistic opportunities in the Northwoods’ creative community.

Not quite sure where to start? Here’s a round-up of 7 single-day arts workshops happening in the Northwoods this season. There is something on this list for every age group! Whether you live here year-round or you’re visiting the area for just a few days, these are all excellent events to add to your Up North autumn must-do list.

1. Learn to Make Glass Beads

Land O’ Lakes Arts – Land O’ Lakes – Saturday, October 12, 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

Learn the fascinating art of creating flame-worked glass beads through discussions, demonstrations, and handouts provided by instructor Julie Lukosaitis of Madison. Register for this interesting class by October 5.

2. October Paint with Elliott Aaron

The Warehouse Art Center – Eagle River – Wednesday, October 16, 6:30–9:30 p.m.

Learn how to paint a vibrant autumn scene with Elliott Aaron as you sip a glass of wine from Inspiration Bar. (This class is designed for adults.)

3. Kids’ Night In: Monster Mash

Earth Goods – Minocqua – Saturday, October 19, 6–8 p.m.

Drop off the kids (ages 5 and older) at Earth Goods while you enjoy a dinner out in Minocqua. The kids will paint a Halloween-themed scene on canvas. The price of this event includes the two hours of childcare, art supplies for the project, and a light snack. Call to reserve your spot, as space is limited.

4. Sip of Culture: Sugar Skulls Art and Cocktail Party

ArtStart – Rhinelander – Tuesday, October 22, 5–7 p.m.

Learn about the significance of sugar skulls while you decorate your own to take home with you. Enjoy a complimentary cocktail or glass of wine while BC Cakes teaches you decorating and piping techniques with which you’ll perfect your sugar skull. In this self-lead, drop-in event designed for adults, you can plan on spending about one hour decorating your sugar skull.

5. Pumpkin Painting ArtyParty

ArtStart – Rhinelander – Friday, October 25, 5–7 p.m.

Spend quality time with your loved ones while creating special Halloween decorations in this family-friendly event for all ages. Join the celebration and paint your own pumpkin to take home with you.

6. Fall Series Wine and Paint

Aqualand Ale House – Boulder Junction – Saturday, October 26, 10 a.m.

Paint one of the two great selections from the fall series on October 26 as well as other select Saturdays throughout the season. The price of the class includes all art supplies plus a beverage of your choice. What a great way to start the weekend. Be sure to RSVP on Aqualand Ale House’s Facebook page.

7. Barn Quilt Painting

Nicolet College – Rhinelander – Saturday, November 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Have you ever driven through central Wisconsin and admired the rustic barns bedecked with wooden panels featuring colorful geometric patterns that add interest to the bucolic landscape? Create a barn quilt like this of your own in this workshop that is open to the community.

Be sure to check out the venues’ websites for current information about class availability, schedules, and prices.